Wetsuit Rentals

***Wetsuits, booties and splash jackets are strongly recommended for Spring New River trips, Summer Gauley trips and all Fall Gauley trips (when water temperatures from the Summersville Dam average 50ºf and weather is unpredictable with fluctuating air temperatures and quickly changing weather conditions).

Reasons to Wear a Wetsuit

Wetsuits are the core layer in a layering system principle

The suit material, known as neoprene, is made up of millions of air pockets that provide insulation from the cold water

They provide extra flotation. Filled with millions of tiny insulating air pockets, wetsuits are naturally buoyant. In the event of a swim, they provide a little extra flotation to keep you closer to the water's surface

When wet, they heat a thin layer of water between you and the suit, keeping you warm

They protect your body from rock abrasions. The extra layer of a wetsuit can be a great buffer between you and the river rocks

Wetsuit Tips:

Wear a swimsuit underneath + synthetic base layers for extra warmth

The farmer john style is the most comfortable and should be worn with a paddling jacket or rain jacket

Each wetsuit is sanitized after every use and heat-dried for your comfort

Available Wetsuit Options

Farmer John:

Your wetsuit ensemble begins with this item. During September on the Fall Gauley, this item will keep you comfortable with the addition of a nylon jacket. Plus, it will give you the additional flotation and protection from rocks. The sleeveless design provides ease of motion.

Neoprene Long-Sleeve Jacket:

On really cool days, or if you're a 'cold-natured' person, this jacket makes the difference. It adds sleeves to your Farmer John wetsuit, plus an extra layer of thick, warm neoprene. Even with all this rubber, it's still a good idea to wear synthetic base layers next to your skin.

Nylon Splash Jacket:

This jacket is perfect for those days that are not cold enough for the neoprene jacket. The Splash Jacket's long sleeves, tight neoprene collar and adjustable cuffs protect you from splashing water and wind. This jacket also works well if it rains. You can always take it off if the day turns out warmer than expected. (Remember that you are responsible for all rental items, so keep track of any clothing you remove.)

Neoprene Booties:

Cold feet equal a miserable day. Even if the air temperature is warm, don't forget that the Fall Gauley water is quite chilly. Even the small amount of water in the bottom of a self-bailing raft can keep your feet soaked. Booties are a good idea any time you're rafting on cold water. Booties work best when combined with one or more pairs of wool or acrylic socks worn underneath.

You may use cash or a credit card to pay for your wetsuit rental (If you would like to use a reservation credit to pay for wetsuits, you must pay in our outfitters store)

During Fall Gauley Season, you may pay at the Wetsuit Rental Area, unless you are using a reservation credit to pay for your rental. All other times of year, you will pay in our outfitters store.

Take the form to the Wetsuit Rental Area to pickup rentals

Returning your wetsuit:

After your trip, please return your wetsuit and jacket inside-out. Wetsuits must be returned within 30 minutes after your bus returns to base or you will be charged for another day's rental fee... and don't forget your booties please :)